{"id":979,"date":"2026-09-11T19:46:24","date_gmt":"2026-09-11T17:46:24","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.hsu-hh.de\/drc\/?page_id=979"},"modified":"2026-09-15T14:30:25","modified_gmt":"2026-09-15T12:30:25","slug":"international-fellows","status":"publish","type":"page","link":"https:\/\/www.hsu-hh.de\/drc\/en\/international-fellows\/","title":{"rendered":"International Fellows"},"content":{"rendered":"
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The DRC\u2019s International Fellows bring diverse academic, professional, and regional perspectives from around the world to the network. With expertise spanning democratic resilience, security and governance research, crisis management, international relations, peacebuilding, technology policy, and social cohesion, they enrich the Centre\u2019s interdisciplinary exchange and research activities. Through their scholarship, practical experience, and international networks, they make valuable contributions to the development of innovative approaches for strengthening democratic societies. Here, we introduce the DRC\u2019s International Visiting Scholars and the leadership responsible for coordinating this program.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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Dr.<\/abbr> Jill Long <\/a>\u2013 Lead Executive Operations & International Research Fellows<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Dr.<\/abbr> Long, a retired U.S. Air Force Colonel, brings more than 30 years of practical experience as a security professional and 15 years as a Senior Professor of Strategic Leadership to the Democratic Resilience Center. Dr.<\/abbr> Long developed the Strategic Emergence Model\u2122 providing a structure which guides strategic design for hybrid conflict and great power competition to connect grand strategic thought to agency\/ministerial-level strategic planning processes. As Director of the Democratic Resilience Center, she orchestrates the translation of the center\u2019s excellent academic research into practical solutions which mitigate the threats to democracies and bolsters democratic resiliency. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

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Senior international Fellows<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Alissa Chmiel<\/strong> (Germany<\/strong>) is a researcher and advocate from Berlin, Germany, specializing in the intersection of technology and global peace and security. She holds a Master\u2019s degree from the UN-mandated University for Peace, where her research focused on the role of social media in information and cognitive warfare in the Russian-Ukrainian context. With over 9 years of experience in civil peacebuilding initiatives worldwide, Alissa explores how digitalization shapes global security. Combining academic rigor with hands-on experience, she leads seminars and collaborates with experts to advance solutions for a democratic and secure digital future.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Ardahan \u00d6zkan Gedikli (Germany)<\/strong> is a PhD researcher at the Leibniz Institute of Global and Area Studies (GIGA) and has been working as a Research Associate at Helmut Schmidt University since May 2023. Following the completion of his master’s degree at the University of Sussex, he worked as a public sector consultant in Ankara. His recent publications include a book chapter on Turkish-German relations and a peer-reviewed article on European Union Mediterranean policy. As a fellow of the Konrad Adenauer Foundation, Ardahan focuses on peace and conflict research, development assistance, Turkish foreign policy, European politics, the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region, and discourse analysis.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Analyse Hughes<\/strong> (USA\/Taiwan<\/strong>) is a graduate student in the International Master\u2019s Program in Asia-Pacific Studies at National Chengchi University and a graduate of Norwich University, where she studied War and Peace, Information Warfare, Intelligence and Crime Analysis, Transnational Crime, and Chinese. She has conducted research and analysis with the U.S. Army War College, National Security Innovation Network, Foundation for Defense of Democracies, and C4ADS. Her research focuses on authoritarian information systems, cognitive and information warfare, digital influence operations, and security dynamics in the Indo-Pacific, with particular attention to China, North Korea, and emerging authoritarian cooperation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Frank Maxime Yankam Lemdjo<\/strong> (Cameroon<\/strong>) Frank is an accomplished legal professional with over a decade of experience in international criminal law, human rights, and humanitarian law. With expertise in evidence analysis, litigation support, and interdisciplinary research, he has contributed to impactful projects for organizations such as the United Nations and the African Union. Fluent in multiple languages, he brings a global perspective to strengthening democratic resilience and advancing human rights. His published work spans topics including geopolitical trends, legal remedies, and democratic systems, showcasing his commitment to justice and governance.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Vivian Kristofferson (United States of America<\/strong>)is a seasoned professional from the U.S., specializing in wargaming design and execution, with a background in cybersecurity and policy management. Currently, Vivian is a Cyber Lead at The MITRE Corporation, a not-for-profit institution working in the public interest. She develops strategic\/operational wargaming solutions for US government sponsors.  Her previous roles at MITRE include Senior Cybersecurity Engineer and Corporate Licensing Manager, where she honed her expertise in acquisition strategy and technology licensing. Vivian holds a master\u2019s degree in Cybersecurity Strategy and Information Management from George Washington University. Fluent in Mandarin Chinese, she is also an avid video gamer, bringing a unique perspective to her wargaming endeavors.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Dr.<\/abbr> Rebecca Nicholson<\/strong> (United States of America<\/strong>) is a scholar-practitioner specializing in the root causes of violent and political conflict. With over 20 years of experience, she has collaborated with military special forces, indigenous communities, NGOs, private companies, and policy-making bodies. Holding a Ph.D. in Conflict Analysis & Resolution and dual Bachelor\u2019s degrees in Political Science and Public Relations, Dr.<\/abbr> Nicholson integrates academic research with practical solutions to address complex challenges and foster democratic resilience.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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International Fellows 2026<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Alison Buchanan (Canada) <\/strong>is a resilience professional specializing in technical governance, risk, and crisis management across public and private sector environments, currently serving as an Adjunct Professor of Homeland Security and Public Safety at Niagara University and Seneca Polytechnic. She brings deep operational experience in crisis and continuity planning across public sector, private sector, and NGO settings. She holds a Master of Disaster and Emergency Management from York University, a Master of Professional Studies in Security and Terrorism Studies through the National Consortium for the Study of Responses to Terrorism (START) at the University of Maryland, and is a PhD candidate at Niagara University, where her research focuses on technical governance in digital spaces. Alison serves on the Board of Directors at CanOps and on advisory boards on Resilience Next, the Safe AI Foundation, and Roblox’s Safety Committee, and advises two tech startups in AI safety.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Samuel Gausi (Germany\/Malawi) <\/strong>is a PhD Researcher at Leuphana University L\u00fcneburg, working at the intersection of democratic innovations and sustainability governance in sub-Saharan Africa. He has spent several years in international development cooperation, most recently working on Strategic Foresight at the United Nations and Energy Access at GIZ (German Agency for International Cooperation). He holds an MA in Development and Governance from the University of Duisburg-Essen and a BA in Political Science from the University of Malawi.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Joseph A. Getto (USA)\u00a0<\/strong>is a recent Masters graduate in International Conflict Resolution at the Heller School for Social Policy and Management at Brandeis University in Waltham, Massachusetts. He has served as a Specialist Fellow in AI Safety, Nuclear Risk and Global Governance with the Alva Myrdal Centre for Nuclear Disarmament and has written for the Center for Arms Control and Nonproliferation on issues surrounding A.I. and international security.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Mustafa Gurgaze (The Netherlands) <\/strong>is a development professional with over 15 years of experience in promoting democracy, human rights, peacebuilding, and community resilience. He has led programs in partnership with governments, UN agencies, and international organizations to strengthen inclusive governance and social cohesion. His expertise includes capacity building, advocacy, and organizational development.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Fabio Kadner (Germany)<\/strong> is a social scientist, public sector consultant, and trainer. He has several years of experience empowering cities on their path toward data-driven governance and sustainable smart city development, working at the strategic and operational levels. An interdisciplinary academic background underpins his work, spanning a B.A. in political science, sociology, and media science from D\u00fcsseldorf and an M.A. in development cooperation and international relations from Bonn and Ankara. His research addresses social resilience factors in offline and online spaces, as well as autocratic and illiberal tendencies that challenge democratic systems. As a DRC Fellow, he is committed to translating research insights into actionable steps and civic education formats.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Dr.<\/abbr> Roxanne Franklin Lorio (USA\/France) <\/strong>is a strategist and advisor with more than two decades of experience across philanthropy, government and civil society. Her work focuses on helping institutions translate complex social, policy and systems challenges into practical strategies that strengthen communities, improve implementation and support more responsive public systems. She is the founder of Caprien, a strategic advisory practice, and previously held leadership roles at Bloomberg Philanthropies, E Pluribus Unum and the City of New Orleans. Roxanne holds degrees in law, social work and world arts and cultures.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Winjoy Marangu<\/strong> (Germany\/Kenya)<\/strong> holds a master\u2019s degree in International Relations and has a keen interest in democratic governance and public policy. Through policy analysis and research, she seeks to contribute to evidence-informed solutions that strengthen resilient institutions and promote sustainable peace.  <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Josie Garza Medina (USA) <\/strong>is a graduate student in the Master of Science in Sociology program at Texas A&M University-Kingsville. She holds a Master of Arts in Cultural Studies from the same university. Her Master of Arts thesis focused on gender expression and performance in cyberpunk media, with a case study of the video game Cyberpunk 2077<\/em>. Her Master of Science research project reviewed extant literature on gender-affirming surgeries in Weimar Republic-era Berlin.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Dr.<\/abbr> Pankaj Mehrotra (India) <\/strong>has PhD, MS and BS in Sciences from Universities in Scotland, United States of America and India. Panjak also studied in Universities in Denmark, England, Germany and Spain. He worked at higher education institution in Thailand and China and completed policies and diplomacy courses from universities. He brings his experience in science, teaching, scientific teaching, scientific research, educational research, leadership, policy, policy brief and diplomacy to the DRC fellowship.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Dahlia Naguib (Canada)<\/strong> is a Master of Arts in Counseling Psychology graduate and Registered Psychotherapist (RP) in Ontario, Canada, with expertise in trauma-informed care, community mental health, and cross-sector partnerships. Experienced in supporting youth, diverse communities, and individuals impacted by conflict, war, displacement, and political instability. Committed to strengthening resilience, decision making, psychological safety, social cohesion, and equitable systems through culturally responsive practice. Fluent in English, French, and Arabic.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Danielle Seiwaa Owusu<\/strong> (Ghana) <\/strong>is a B.Sc. Geophysics student at the University of Ghana with experience in geoscience research and technical writing. She has contributed to research, content development, and public engagement through internships, leadership roles, and volunteer initiatives. Her interests span sustainable infrastructure, environmental sustainability, and interdisciplinary research that addresses societal challenges.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

John \u201cJack\u201d Rodman (USA)<\/strong> has three decades of experience with multiple agencies, military commands, and foreign partners addressing future threats like malign influence, hybrid warfare, and shifts in strategic deterrence. He has developed exercises, research programs, and strategies to explore the most critical defense, intelligence, and whole-of-nation challenges to the United States.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Jacqueline Thiele<\/strong> (Germany)<\/strong> is a Police Commissioner with the Berlin Police and holds a Master’s degree in International Security Management from the Berlin School of Economics and Law. As an incoming PhD researcher focusing on institutional resilience, security governance, and the future of public security, she combines operational experience in public security with academic inquiry. Her research explores how security institutions can adapt, innovate, and remain effective in an increasingly complex global security environment.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Yu-Chen Tong (Taiwan) <\/strong>is an M.A. candidate in European and East Asian Governance at Trier University, with a foundational background in media and communication studies from National Taiwan University and the University of T\u00fcbingen. He is experienced in conducting policy-oriented analysis and open-source intelligence (OSINT) research, with a focus on geoeconomics, Chinese public policy, and EU migration policy.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Pawe\u0142 Witczak (Poland) <\/strong>is an international affairs specialist focusing on German foreign policy, transatlantic security, European order and Central and Eastern Europe. His work combines policy research, strategic analysis, programme development and engagement with public institutions, think tanks, academia and business. He holds degrees in American Studies, Eastern Studies and German Philology and works across Polish-, English- and German-language sources.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"

The DRC\u2019s International Fellows bring diverse academic, professional, and regional perspectives from around the world to the network. With expertise spanning democratic resilience, security and governance research, crisis management, international […]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":4317,"featured_media":0,"parent":0,"menu_order":0,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","template":"","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[7],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-979","page","type-page","status-publish","hentry","category-research"],"lang":"en","translations":{"en":979,"de":941},"pll_sync_post":{},"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.hsu-hh.de\/drc\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/979","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.hsu-hh.de\/drc\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.hsu-hh.de\/drc\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/page"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.hsu-hh.de\/drc\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/4317"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.hsu-hh.de\/drc\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=979"}],"version-history":[{"count":7,"href":"https:\/\/www.hsu-hh.de\/drc\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/979\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":1008,"href":"https:\/\/www.hsu-hh.de\/drc\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/979\/revisions\/1008"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.hsu-hh.de\/drc\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=979"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.hsu-hh.de\/drc\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=979"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.hsu-hh.de\/drc\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=979"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}